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Supanee “Suzie” Buttho is a busy traveler and tour guide who hails from the Kingdom of Thailand. Suzie is one of Alexander + Roberts’ expert guides on our bespoke itineraries such as The Hill Tribes of Thailand, which takes visitors off the beaten track of this colorful and intriguing country.

We caught up with Suzie between groups to find out more about her life and her recommendations for visiting Thailand.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your country. How do you come to be working in the travel business?

I love traveling! It’s my passion and my hobby; I’ve already visited 35 countries and I’m really looking forward to adding more to the list. Traveling is also my career, and I try to put a lot of heart, love, and dedication into this work. I feel very fortunate to be able to introduce visitors to my native Thailand, which we call “The Land of Smiles.”

When I’m not traveling, and in the off-season, I try to stay healthy through exercising, especially swimming, which is very easy in our wonderful climate along our amazing coastline.

2. What is one thing about your country that foreign visitors find surprising?

I think people know about Thailand’s beautiful scenery and culture before they come, but when they get here, they are often surprised by just how diverse both are. We have soaring mountains in the northern part of our country, and lovely beaches in the south and east, with amazing ruins, temples, several UNESCO World Heritage sights, and several unique rituals and unique cultures. Most of my guests remark how much Thai people smile, and, of course, how delicious our food is!

3. How has visiting your country changed over the years?

We’ve seen a real increase in people visiting Thailand over the past years, with more and more visitors each year. We’re very friendly and hospitable people to begin with, and our service professionals – hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour guides – are very good at what they do. We offer leisure, active tourism, and cultural highlights as well as superb food. Combine that with our amazing scenery, attractions, and really great shopping and it’s a perfect recipe for a dream vacation no matter who you are.

4. I’ve got three days to visit your destination. What should I do?

Be sure to take a ride along one of our picturesque canals – that’s a must. Visit our fascinating temples to get an ideal of our history and culture, and enjoy our marvelous cuisine. If you are fond of shopping, you will find the floating markets fascinating, and you can get excellent deals on precious gems, silks, rattan products, and even furniture. Finally, I always recommend some of our marvelous spa treatments like massages, facials, and other treatments… you’ll go home feeling great!

5. How would you characterize Thailand’s people? What makes them tick?

I said earlier that Thailand is “The Land of Smiles,” and I really do believe this. Thai people are very friendly, kind, and always happy to help visitors. You don’t always find this when you travel abroad, and I think it makes Thailand especially pleasant and easy to visit and explore.

6. What are three books I should read before visiting your country to prepare?

Please don’t make me choose! Honestly — it’s impossible. They are all different and offer something unique. The Hill Tribes of Thailand is a great itinerary if you want to head inside the country and learn about our history and culture in more detail. Visiting Chiang Mai is a great way to better understand the life of Buddhist Monks – Buddhism is a major part of life in our Kingdom and the ancient ritual of donating alms has survived to our day. If you are looking for rest and relaxation, there is no better place to visit than Phuket – our beautiful resort island. See? We really do have something for everyone!

Did you know that we have about 2,000 miles of coastline? For a small country such as ours… that’s a lot! Our country is so diverse with many traditions and cultures that tie us together as a nation.

Suzie and her colleagues are part of Alexander + Roberts’ global team of local experts, dedicated to helping you make the most of your travel destination. Speak to one of our knowledgeable reservation agents about your next adventure.